Police: Group Of Teenagers Attacked Man Over Cigarette

Winston-Salem, NC -- Police are looking for eight to 10 teenagers who attacked a 19-year-old because he wouldn't give one of them a cigarette, police say.

The victim told police he was sitting on the steps of the old YMCA building on N. Spruce St. when a teenager approached him and asked for a cigarette. When the man didn't give it to him, the suspect reached into the victim's vest pocket to take his pack of cigarettes, according to a news release.

Police say the victim pushed the teenager away and tried to run, but a group of eight or nine teenagers, as well as the original suspect, attacked him. The group punched and kicked him while he was on the ground before stealing his wallet and cell phone, police say.

The suspects ran from the scene in several directions.

The victim suffered a few minor injuries and refused to go to the hospital.

The Winston-Salem Police Department needs your help finding the people responsible for this. If you have any information, call Crime Stoppers at 336-727-2800.